Local Artist Transforms Neighborhood With a Secret Sculpture Garden

A vacant residential lot in the North Memphis neighborhood of Speedway Terrace is slowly filling with stone pathways, benches, flowers, and sculpture made by local artists and neighborhood children. It's a dream realized by local artist Thomasin Durgin, who conceived the idea a decade ago. She gradually saved enough money to buy the lot at 1095 Forrest Avenue, and set about to create a public arts space. In addition to creating a beautiful, peaceful place for neighbors to gather, she has delighted in the positive impact her project has had on the children who have volunteered to participate.

I spoke with Secret Sculpture Garden creator Thomasin Durgin, and one of her volunteers, 11 year old Ja'Sean Harbin. If you 'd like to lend your support to the project, visit http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/tdurgin/the-secret-sculpture-garden, or ssgmemphis.com.